EP3178104B1 - Fuse for a device to be protected - Google Patents

Fuse for a device to be protected Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3178104B1
EP3178104B1 EP15745221.0A EP15745221A EP3178104B1 EP 3178104 B1 EP3178104 B1 EP 3178104B1 EP 15745221 A EP15745221 A EP 15745221A EP 3178104 B1 EP3178104 B1 EP 3178104B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
fuse
contact
protected
fusible conductor
triggering
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP15745221.0A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3178104A1 (en
Inventor
Rainer Durth
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
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Phoenix Contact GmbH and Co KG
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Publication of EP3178104A1 publication Critical patent/EP3178104A1/en
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Publication of EP3178104B1 publication Critical patent/EP3178104B1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/04—Fuses, i.e. expendable parts of the protective device, e.g. cartridges
    • H01H85/05—Component parts thereof
    • H01H85/143—Electrical contacts; Fastening fusible members to such contacts
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/0241—Structural association of a fuse and another component or apparatus
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/04—Fuses, i.e. expendable parts of the protective device, e.g. cartridges
    • H01H85/05—Component parts thereof
    • H01H85/055—Fusible members
    • H01H85/12—Two or more separate fusible members in parallel
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/38—Means for extinguishing or suppressing arc
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/46—Circuit arrangements not adapted to a particular application of the protective device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
    • H01T1/00—Details of spark gaps
    • H01T1/12—Means structurally associated with spark gap for recording operation thereof
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
    • H01T1/00—Details of spark gaps
    • H01T1/14—Means structurally associated with spark gap for protecting it against overload or for disconnecting it in case of failure
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01T—SPARK GAPS; OVERVOLTAGE ARRESTERS USING SPARK GAPS; SPARKING PLUGS; CORONA DEVICES; GENERATING IONS TO BE INTRODUCED INTO NON-ENCLOSED GASES
    • H01T2/00—Spark gaps comprising auxiliary triggering means
    • H01T2/02—Spark gaps comprising auxiliary triggering means comprising a trigger electrode or an auxiliary spark gap
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/0241—Structural association of a fuse and another component or apparatus
    • H01H2085/0283—Structural association with a semiconductor device
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H85/00—Protective devices in which the current flows through a part of fusible material and this current is interrupted by displacement of the fusible material when this current becomes excessive
    • H01H85/02—Details
    • H01H85/38—Means for extinguishing or suppressing arc
    • H01H2085/388—Means for extinguishing or suppressing arc using special materials

Definitions

  • the invention relates to a triggerable fuse for a device to be protected.
  • a fuse can then be triggered.
  • the current flowing through the fuse heats the fusible conductor to such an extent that at least a partial, if not complete, melting of the fusible conductor occurs.
  • This melting is usually associated with the occurrence of an electric arc, with the material of the fusible conductor evaporating. This vapor is deposited elsewhere, with the arc being cooled to such an extent that the current is limited and finally switched off.
  • the melting of the fusible conductor is determined by its material and geometric properties, so that, depending on the material and / or geometry of the fusible conductor, a respective amount of heat Q is necessary to vaporize the fusible conductor.
  • the melting properties and the associated rated tripping currents are described by the melting integral I 2 t.
  • WO 2014/065 763 shows a fuse according to the preamble of claim 1.
  • the invention is therefore based on the object of providing an improved fuse.
  • FIGS. 1 , 2 and 4th each show a schematic representation of a fuse F according to the invention.
  • the fuse F is connected in series with a device 8 to be protected, the series circuit being connected to a supply network with a first potential L and a second potential N different therefrom.
  • the potentials L and N can be any suitable direct voltage or alternating voltage potential. The potentials L and N thus form the supply network to which the series circuit is connected.
  • the fuse F has a first contact 1 and a second contact 2.
  • the second contact 2 is used to make electrical contact with the device 8 to be protected.
  • the fuse F also has a fusible link 5 which connects the first contact 1 to the second contact 2.
  • the fuse F has at least one further contact 3, the further contact 3 being arranged so as to be insulated from the first contact 1 and insulated from the second contact 2. In a non-triggered state of the fuse F, the further contact 3 has no contact with the fusible conductor 5.
  • the first contact 1 is directly connected to the first potential L and the device 8 to be protected is directly connected to the second potential N.
  • the further contact 3 is also directly connected to the second potential N during operation.
  • a fourth contact 4 which provides external triggering, the fusible conductor 5 being caused to melt indirectly or directly when triggered.
  • the fusible conductor 5 is severed.
  • the arc that occurs in the process passes over to the further contact 3 in the area thereof.
  • this is favored by the fact that the further contact 3 essentially has the potential N, so that here the voltage between the fusible conductor 5, which essentially has the potential L, is greater than the potential of the second contact 2, which essentially has the has the same potential as the fusible conductor 5, a reduction occurring here due to the drop in potential across the protective device 8.
  • this secondary arc will have a larger current, so that a safe separation of the fusible conductor and thus protection of the device 8 is guaranteed.
  • the fourth contact 4 is here - preferably as in FIG Figures 1 . 2 and 4th shown - in close proximity to the contact 2 and the further contact 3.
  • the sequence can be suitably chosen, e.g. the further contact 3 and the second contact 2 can be adjacent to the fourth contact, or the fourth contact is arranged above the further contact and thus the further contact has the second contact 2 and the fourth contact 4 as a neighbor.
  • the fourth contact 4 is also made insulated in the fuse.
  • the fourth contact 4 can serve as an ignition spark gap for the area where the contact 3 approaches the fusible conductor 5. A triggerable fuse is thus obtained.
  • the fusible conductor 5 or the contact 3 can serve as the electrical counter-contact to the fourth contact 4, but without being restricted to this.
  • a further contact (not shown) can also be provided, which is isolated from the second contact 2, the further contact 3 and the fourth contact 4.
  • ignition now occurs between the fourth contact 4 and the further contact 3, between the fourth contact 4 and the fusible conductor 5, or between the fourth contact 4 and the further contact (not shown).
  • the ignition can also be through a resistive support, such as in the DE 10146728 or by means of a transformer high voltage pulse as in the DE 50 2005 008 658 shown by the applicant.
  • suitable triggering can be provided by means of a correspondingly configured trigger device 9.
  • the trigger device 9 can be made to trigger.
  • a wide variety of monitoring mechanisms for electrical circuits and devices can be used to control the trigger device 9. Examples are arc detection and temperature monitoring.
  • ignition can be triggered with relatively little energy, as a result of which an arc with high power arises between the further contact 3 and the fusible conductor 5, as a result of which the fusible conductor 5 separates so far that the current is switched off.
  • a primary arc is created there. This initially burns between the ends of the fusible conductor 5 created at the point of separation. Under the action of the arc, the separated ends of the fusible conductor 5 burn down, the arc being lengthened.This process can take place at different speeds depending on the design and location of the separation. As a result of the ionization caused by the arc, the further contact 3 is formed as the (new) base point of the arc, if not already done.
  • the current flow through the device 8 to be protected is thus interrupted. This ensures that, in the event of a fault, the device 8 to be protected only has to carry the energy corresponding to i2t that is necessary for melting and developing the first arc. If external triggering is provided by means of the trigger device 9, the current does not play a role in relation to the device 8 to be protected. This energy is much less than the energy that would flow through the device until the fuse was deleted (permeability integral).
  • the fusible conductor 5 has a predetermined breaking point in the area of the further contact 3.
  • the fusible conductor 5 will now melt in the area of the predetermined breaking point 6.
  • Such predetermined breaking points 6 can be created, for example, by tapering (s) and / or perforation (s) of the fusible conductor 5 be realized.
  • An arc is created and the arc in turn burns off the two ends of the fusible conductor 5 and is thereby lengthened.
  • the arc causes ionization so that the arc can select contact 3 as the new base point or due to the low resistance (e.g. with appropriate dimensioning) and / or arrangement relative to the second contact.
  • the current flow through the device 8 to be protected is thus interrupted.
  • the fusible conductor 5 is filled with an extinguishing medium, in particular with sand and / or POM (polyoxymethylene). This improves the switching properties with regard to the switching capacity and also the speed, since an improved cooling of the arc is now provided, whereby the switching capacity and the switching speed can be improved.
  • an extinguishing medium in particular with sand and / or POM (polyoxymethylene).
  • the further contact 3 has a disk-like design, the fusible conductor 5 being guided in an indentation or through an opening.
  • the production can be made particularly simple and thus inexpensive.
  • the contact can be designed as a disk with an essentially circular opening.
  • the fourth contact 4 has a disk-like design, the fusible conductor 5 being guided in an indentation or through an opening.
  • the production can be made particularly simple and thus inexpensive.
  • the contact can be designed as a disk with an essentially circular opening.
  • the fuse F can furthermore have an auxiliary fusible conductor 10 which is in electrical connection with the first contact 1 and which is in electrical connection with the fourth contact 4. This allows the operation z. B. with respect to spark gaps as the device 8 to be protected.
  • This embodiment is particularly suitable for protecting auxiliary circuits of high-power electrical devices. It would be conceivable that the electronic measuring, control, regulation and safety devices of large motors and other high-performance consumers that have low-power auxiliary circuits, but where the failure of the auxiliary circuit should lead to an immediate shutdown (emergency shutdown) of the main device.
  • Ignition circuits are usually with regard to their electrical parameters, e.g. their electrical cross-section, designed to be significantly smaller than the main electrical path of the spark gap, since the backup fuse must always be dimensioned for the maximum surge current pulse to be diverted. It may therefore be necessary to secure ignition circuits with additional protective devices, which requires additional installation space. Furthermore, the triggering of a protective device in the ignition circuit must also be signaled and given. This results in a considerable additional effort, which can be minimized by integrating the auxiliary fusible conductor as a fuse for the ignition circuit in the backup fuse, and an additional gain in safety is generated by the spark gap 8 being completely separated electrically.
  • the trigger device 9 for a spark gap can be used as the device 8 to be protected, as in FIG Figure 4 be executed shown.
  • the fusible conductor 5 and the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be guided in a wire-like manner, at least in sections, in parallel, or as in FIG Figure 3 shown on the left-hand side, the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be separated in sections from the fusible conductor 5 as a part.
  • the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be correspondingly separated in sections from the fusible conductor 5 by punching, cutting, milling or the like.
  • auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can as in Figure 3 Shown on the right, sections also surround the fusible conductor 5 in a spiral manner.
  • the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 should run isolated from the fusible conductor 5, at least in the area where the contact 3 approaches the fusible link 5, so that an essentially defined ignition point is present.
  • the fusible conductor 5 and also the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can have one or more predetermined breaking points 6 in the area of the further contact 3 or in the area of the fourth contact 4.
  • the fuse F according to the invention can particularly advantageously be used in a fuse arrangement A, for example as in FIG Figure 4 are used, which in addition to the fuse F also has the device 8 to be protected and a trigger device 9 which is connected to the fourth contact 4 and enables "external" triggering, ie triggering that is not directly owed to the main conduction path .
  • the device 8 to be protected can have an overvoltage protection device, for example a spark gap and / or a varistor and / or a transient voltage suppressor diode.
  • an overvoltage protection device for example a spark gap and / or a varistor and / or a transient voltage suppressor diode.
  • a wear monitoring device 12 is also provided, which is designed, for example, as a contact protected with a degradable material.
  • the trigger device 9 is then connected, for example on the output side, to the wear monitoring device 12 of the spark gap 8 to the fourth contact 4.
  • auxiliary fusible conductor 10 If the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 is overloaded in the area of the approach between the contact 4 and the fusible conductor 5, an arc is created between the ends of the fused-on auxiliary fusible conductor 10.This arc ignites a second arc between the fusible conductor 5 and the contact 3, which is used to burn off the fusible conductor 5, so it triggers the fuse.
  • the auxiliary fusible link 10 can be used in the area of the approach of the Contact 3 on the fusible conductor 5 have a predetermined breaking point 6, which breaks first when the fusible conductor is overloaded, so that a first arc occurs at this point.
  • the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be energized and triggered by switching devices in the device to be protected or a trigger device 9. This gives a triggerable fuse F.
  • the usual mechanisms for isolated implementation of potentials can be used to introduce the isolated potentials of the further contact 3 and the fourth contact 4.
  • the layered structure of metal plates and insulating plates with a locking end plate at the end is particularly advantageous.
  • the different potentials can be introduced via the stacked and insulated plates.
  • the plate stack can e.g. be screwed.
  • the triggering of the fuse can be signaled according to the usual mechanisms.
  • the presented invention can be used particularly advantageously in the field of electromobility as well as the generation of electrical energy by means of photovoltaics. It is often found here that vehicles or systems or devices should meet certain safety criteria in order, for example, in the event of an accident or fire, to avoid any danger to occupants or helpers.
  • the invention can then readily provide an automatically or externally triggerable and high-performance shutdown of the energy source as an example of a device 8 to be protected.

Description

Die Erfindung betrifft eine triggerbare Schmelzsicherung für eine zu schützende Einrichtung.The invention relates to a triggerable fuse for a device to be protected.

Sowohl eine Vielzahl von elektrischen Geräten, als auch elektrischen Leitungen werden für den Fall von Fehlern durch Sicherungen geschützt. Dabei können Fehler der unterschiedlichsten Art auftreten. Die häufigsten Fehler können als Überlastfehler oder als Kurzschlussfehler verstanden werden.Both a large number of electrical devices and electrical lines are protected by fuses in the event of errors. Errors of the most varied types can occur. The most common errors can be understood as overload errors or short circuit errors.

Typischerweise kann dann eine Schmelzsicherung ausgelöst werden. Dabei erwärmt der die Schmelzsicherung durchfließende Strom den Schmelzleiter soweit, dass es zumindest zu einem partiellen, wenn nicht sogar einem vollständigen Aufschmelzen des Schmelzleiters kommt. Dieses Aufschmelzen ist in aller Regel damit verbunden, dass ein Lichtbogen auftritt, wobei Material des Schmelzleiters verdampf. Dieser Dampf schlägt sich an anderer Stelle nieder, wobei der Lichtbogen soweit gekühlt wird, dass der Strom begrenzt und schließlich abgeschaltet wird.Typically a fuse can then be triggered. In this case, the current flowing through the fuse heats the fusible conductor to such an extent that at least a partial, if not complete, melting of the fusible conductor occurs. This melting is usually associated with the occurrence of an electric arc, with the material of the fusible conductor evaporating. This vapor is deposited elsewhere, with the arc being cooled to such an extent that the current is limited and finally switched off.

Das Aufschmelzen des Schmelzleiters ist durch seine Material- und Geometrieeigenschaften bestimmt, so dass je nach Material und/oder Geometrie des Schmelzleiters eine jeweilige Wärmemenge Q zur Verdampfung des Schmelzleiters notwendig ist. Typischerweise werden die Aufschmelzeigenschaften und damit verbundene Nennauslöseströme durch das Schmelzintegral I2t beschrieben.The melting of the fusible conductor is determined by its material and geometric properties, so that, depending on the material and / or geometry of the fusible conductor, a respective amount of heat Q is necessary to vaporize the fusible conductor. Typically, the melting properties and the associated rated tripping currents are described by the melting integral I 2 t.

Dabei ist aber zu berücksichtigen, dass dieser Strom, der einen Fehlerfall darstellt, dennoch durch das zu schützende Gerät oder die zu schützende Anlage fließt.However, it must be taken into account that this current, which represents a fault, still flows through the device or system to be protected.

Insbesondere bei hohen Kurzschlussströmen besteht somit die Gefahr einer eigentlich zu vermeidenden Schädigung, da die Leistungsgrenze des zu schützenden Gerätes überschritten wird.In particular with high short-circuit currents, there is therefore the risk of damage that should actually be avoided, since the performance limit of the device to be protected is exceeded.

Zudem ist zu berücksichtigen, dass nicht nur in der Phase des Aufschmelzens des Schmelzleiters ein Strom fließt, sondern auch in der Phase des Löschens.In addition, it must be taken into account that a current flows not only in the phase of melting the fuse element, but also in the phase of deletion.

D.h. erst die Integration der beiden Stromflussbereiche über der Zeit führt zum Durchlassintegral.I.e. only the integration of the two current flow areas over time leads to the permeability integral.

Somit muss bei der Dimensionierung eigentlich dieses Durchlassintegral berücksichtigt werden, um eine Schädigung zu vermeiden.This opening integral must therefore actually be taken into account when dimensioning in order to avoid damage.

Allerdings wird dies häufig fehlerhaft vernachlässigt, sodass es zu Fehldimensionierungen kommt.However, this is often incorrectly neglected, so that incorrect dimensioning occurs.

Besondere Anforderungen gelten für den Fall in dem das zu schützende Gerät eine Überspannungsschutzeinrichtung ist, denn diese sollen kurzfristig hohe Ströme passieren lassen, ohne dass die Schmelzsicherung auslöst, zugleich aber auch bei geringen andauernden Fehlerströmen, wie sie z.B. bei einer Schädigung der Überspannungsschutzeinrichtung oder als Netzfolgestrom auftreten können, frühzeitig abzuschalten. Während erstere Anforderung häufig zu hohen Bemessungsstromwerten der Sicherung führt, ist die zweite Anforderung nur mit geringen Nennstromwerten sinnvoll zu realisieren.Special requirements apply in the case in which the device to be protected is an overvoltage protection device, because this should allow high currents to pass briefly without the fuse tripping, but at the same time also in the case of low persistent fault currents, such as those that occur. in the event of damage to the overvoltage protection device or as a line follow current, switch off early. While the first requirement often leads to high rated current values of the fuse, the second requirement can only be implemented sensibly with low rated current values.

Gleichzeitig ist ein immer stärkerer Trend zu kleinen Bauräumen festzustellen. Mit bisherigen Schmelzsicherungen sind die Anforderungen daher nicht vereinbar.At the same time, there is an increasing trend towards small installation spaces. The requirements are therefore not compatible with previous fuses.

WO 2014/065 763 zeigt eine Schmelzsicherung gemäß dem Oberbegriff von Anspruch 1. WO 2014/065 763 shows a fuse according to the preamble of claim 1.

Der Erfindung liegt somit die Aufgabe zu Grunde, eine verbesserte Schmelzsicherung bereitzustellen.The invention is therefore based on the object of providing an improved fuse.

Die Lösung der Aufgabe erfolgt erfindungsgemäß durch die Merkmale des unabhängigen Anspruchs. Vorteilhafte Ausgestaltungen der Erfindung sind in den Unteransprüchen angegeben.The object is achieved according to the invention by the features of the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are specified in the subclaims.

Nachfolgend wird die Erfindung unter Bezugnahme auf die anliegende Zeichnung anhand bevorzugter Ausführungsformen näher erläutert.The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the attached drawing using preferred embodiments.

Es zeigen

Fig. 1
eine erste Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Schmelzsicherung,
Fig. 2
eine zweite Ausführungsform einer erfindungsgemäßen Schmelzsicherung,
Fig. 3
ein Detail in Bezug auf Ausführungsformen der Erfindung, und
Fig. 4
eine Verwendung von unterschiedlichen Ausführungsformen einer erfindungsgemäßen Schmelzsicherung mit einer beispielhaften Überspannungsschutzeinrichtung.
Show it
Fig. 1
a first embodiment of a fuse according to the invention,
Fig. 2
a second embodiment of a fuse according to the invention,
Fig. 3
a detail relating to embodiments of the invention, and
Fig. 4
a use of different embodiments of a fuse according to the invention with an exemplary overvoltage protection device.

Die Figuren 1, 2 und 4 zeigen je eine schematische Darstellung einer erfindungsgemäßen Schmelzsicherung F.The Figures 1 , 2 and 4th each show a schematic representation of a fuse F according to the invention.

Die Schmelzsicherung F ist mit einer zu schützende Einrichtung 8 in Reihe geschaltet, wobei die Reihenschaltung an ein Versorgungsnetz mit einem ersten Potential L und einem hiervon verschiedenen zweiten Potential N angeschlossen ist. Dabei können die Potentiale L und N jedes geeignete Gleichspannungs- oder Wechselspannungspotential sein. Die Potentiale L und N bilden somit das Versorgungsnetz an dem die Reihenschaltung angeschlossen ist.The fuse F is connected in series with a device 8 to be protected, the series circuit being connected to a supply network with a first potential L and a second potential N different therefrom. The potentials L and N can be any suitable direct voltage or alternating voltage potential. The potentials L and N thus form the supply network to which the series circuit is connected.

Dabei weist die Schmelzsicherung F einen ersten Kontakt 1 und einen zweiten Kontakt 2 auf. Der zweite Kontakt 2 dient zur elektrischen Kontaktierung der zu schützenden Einrichtung 8.The fuse F has a first contact 1 and a second contact 2. The second contact 2 is used to make electrical contact with the device 8 to be protected.

Die Schmelzsicherung F weist weiterhin einen Schmelzleiter 5 auf, der den ersten Kontakt 1 mit dem zweiten Kontakt 2 verbindet.The fuse F also has a fusible link 5 which connects the first contact 1 to the second contact 2.

Weiterhin weist die Schmelzsicherung F zumindest einen weiteren Kontakt 3 auf, wobei der weitere Kontakt 3 isoliert zum ersten Kontakt 1 und isoliert zum zweiten Kontakt 2 angeordnet ist. In einem nicht ausgelösten Zustand der Schmelzsicherung F ist der weitere Kontakt 3 kontaktlos zu dem Schmelzleiter 5.Furthermore, the fuse F has at least one further contact 3, the further contact 3 being arranged so as to be insulated from the first contact 1 and insulated from the second contact 2. In a non-triggered state of the fuse F, the further contact 3 has no contact with the fusible conductor 5.

Im Betrieb ist der erste Kontakt 1 mit dem ersten Potential L unmittelbar verbunden und die zu schützende Einrichtung 8 ist mit dem zweiten Potential N unmittelbar verbunden.During operation, the first contact 1 is directly connected to the first potential L and the device 8 to be protected is directly connected to the second potential N.

Weiterhin ist der weitere Kontakt 3 im Betrieb ebenfalls mit dem zweiten Potential N unmittelbar verbunden.Furthermore, the further contact 3 is also directly connected to the second potential N during operation.

Darüber hinaus wird ein vierter Kontakt 4 bereitgestellt, der eine externe Triggerung bereitstellt, wobei bei einer Triggerung der Schmelzleiter 5 mittelbar oder unmittelbar zum Schmelzen veranlasst wird.In addition, a fourth contact 4 is provided, which provides external triggering, the fusible conductor 5 being caused to melt indirectly or directly when triggered.

Tritt nun ein Fehlerfall auf, z.B. durch einen Überstrom oder einen Kurzschluss, so kommt es zu einem Auftrennen des Schmelzleiters 5. Der dabei auftretende Lichtbogen tritt im Bereich des weiteren Kontaktes 3 auf diesen über. Dies ist unter anderem dadurch begünstigt, dass der weitere Kontakt 3 im Wesentlichen das Potential N aufweist, sodass hier die Spannung zwischen dem Schmelzleiter 5, der im Wesentlichen das Potential L aufweist, größer ist als das Potential des zweiten Kontaktes 2, der im Wesentlichen das gleiche Potential wie der Schmelzleiter 5 aufweist, wobei hier eine Minderung durch den Potentialabfall über das schützende Gerät 8 eintritt. Dieser sekundäre Lichtbogen wird in aller Regel einen größeren Strom aufweisen, sodass ein sicheres Auftrennen des Schmelzleiters und damit ein Schutz des Gerätes 8 gewährleistet ist.If an error occurs, e.g. as a result of an overcurrent or a short circuit, the fusible conductor 5 is severed. The arc that occurs in the process passes over to the further contact 3 in the area thereof. Among other things, this is favored by the fact that the further contact 3 essentially has the potential N, so that here the voltage between the fusible conductor 5, which essentially has the potential L, is greater than the potential of the second contact 2, which essentially has the has the same potential as the fusible conductor 5, a reduction occurring here due to the drop in potential across the protective device 8. As a rule, this secondary arc will have a larger current, so that a safe separation of the fusible conductor and thus protection of the device 8 is guaranteed.

Andererseits ist es auch möglich den vierten Kontakt 4 für eine externe Triggerung zu verwenden. Dabei liegt der vierte Kontakt 4 - bevorzugt wie in den Figuren 1. 2 und 4 gezeigt - in unmittelbarer Nähe zu dem Kontakt 2 und dem weiteren Kontakt 3.On the other hand, it is also possible to use the fourth contact 4 for external triggering. The fourth contact 4 is here - preferably as in FIG Figures 1 . 2 and 4th shown - in close proximity to the contact 2 and the further contact 3.

Dabei kann die Abfolge geeignet gewählt sein, z.B. kann der weitere Kontakt 3 und der zweite Kontakt 2 zum vierten Kontakt benachbart sein, oder aber der vierte Kontakt ist oberhalb vom weiteren Kontakt angeordnet und somit hat der weitere Kontakt den zweiten Kontakt 2 und den vierten Kontakt 4 als Nachbar.The sequence can be suitably chosen, e.g. the further contact 3 and the second contact 2 can be adjacent to the fourth contact, or the fourth contact is arranged above the further contact and thus the further contact has the second contact 2 and the fourth contact 4 as a neighbor.

Der vierte Kontakt 4 ist ebenfalls isoliert in die Sicherung geführt. Der vierte Kontakt 4 kann als Zündfunkenstrecken für den Bereich der Annäherung des Kontaktes 3 an den Schmelzleiter 5 dienen. Somit erhält man eine triggerbare Schmelzsicherung.The fourth contact 4 is also made insulated in the fuse. The fourth contact 4 can serve as an ignition spark gap for the area where the contact 3 approaches the fusible conductor 5. A triggerable fuse is thus obtained.

Als elektrischen Gegenkontakt zum vierten Kontakt 4 kann beispielsweise der Schmelzleiter 5 oder der Kontakt 3 dienen, ohne jedoch hierauf beschränkt zu sein. Beispielsweise kann auch noch ein weiterer Kontakt (nicht dargestellt) vorgesehen sein, der isoliert zu dem zweiten Kontakt 2, dem weiteren Kontakt 3 und dem vierten Kontakt 4 ist. Je nach Ausgestaltung tritt nun eine Zündung zwischen dem vierten Kontakt 4 und dem weiteren Kontakt 3, zwischen dem vierten Kontakt 4 und dem Schmelzleiter 5, oder zwischen dem vierten Kontakt 4 und dem nicht dargestellten weiteren Kontakt auf. Dabei kann die Zündung auch durch eine resistive Unterstützung, wie z.B. in der DE 10146728 oder mittels eines transformatorischen Hochspannungsimpulses wie in der DE 50 2005 008 658 der Anmelderin gezeigt unterstützt sein.For example, the fusible conductor 5 or the contact 3 can serve as the electrical counter-contact to the fourth contact 4, but without being restricted to this. For example, a further contact (not shown) can also be provided, which is isolated from the second contact 2, the further contact 3 and the fourth contact 4. Depending on the configuration, ignition now occurs between the fourth contact 4 and the further contact 3, between the fourth contact 4 and the fusible conductor 5, or between the fourth contact 4 and the further contact (not shown). The ignition can also be through a resistive support, such as in the DE 10146728 or by means of a transformer high voltage pulse as in the DE 50 2005 008 658 shown by the applicant.

Hierzu kann eine geeignete Triggerung mittels einer entsprechend ausgestalteten Triggereinrichtung 9 vorgesehen sein. Stellt z.B. die zu schützenden Einrichtung 8 eine Fehlfunktion fest, so kann die Triggereinrichtung 9 zum Auslösen veranlasst werden. Beispielsweise können verschiedenste Überwachungsmechanismen für elektrische Stromkreise und Geräte zur Steuerung der Triggereinrichtung 9 genutzt werden. Beispielhaft seien Lichtbogenerkennung und Temperaturüberwachungen genannt.For this purpose, suitable triggering can be provided by means of a correspondingly configured trigger device 9. For example, If the device 8 to be protected detects a malfunction, the trigger device 9 can be made to trigger. For example, a wide variety of monitoring mechanisms for electrical circuits and devices can be used to control the trigger device 9. Examples are arc detection and temperature monitoring.

Durch die Triggerung kann mit relativ geringer Energie eine Zündung ausgelöst werden, in dessen Folge ein Lichtbogen mit hoher Leistung zwischen dem weiteren Kontakt 3 und dem Schmelzleiter 5 entsteht, wodurch der Schmelzleiter 5 soweit auftrennt, dass der Strom abgeschaltet wird.By triggering, ignition can be triggered with relatively little energy, as a result of which an arc with high power arises between the further contact 3 and the fusible conductor 5, as a result of which the fusible conductor 5 separates so far that the current is switched off.

Bei Auftrennen des Schmelzleiters 5 entsteht dort ein primärer Lichtbogen. Dieser brennt zunächst zwischen den an der Trennstelle entstehenden Enden des Schmelzleiters 5. Unter der Einwirkung des Lichtbogens brennen nun die aufgetrennten Enden des Schmelzleiters 5 ab, wobei sich der Lichtbogen verlängert Dieser Prozess kann je nach Ausgestaltung und Ort des Auftrennens unterschiedlich schnell vonstattengehen. Durch die Ionisierung verursacht durch den Lichtbogen bildet sich, soweit nicht schon geschehen, der weitere Kontakt 3 als (neuer) Fußpunkt des Lichtbogens aus.When the fusible conductor 5 is separated, a primary arc is created there. This initially burns between the ends of the fusible conductor 5 created at the point of separation. Under the action of the arc, the separated ends of the fusible conductor 5 burn down, the arc being lengthened.This process can take place at different speeds depending on the design and location of the separation. As a result of the ionization caused by the arc, the further contact 3 is formed as the (new) base point of the arc, if not already done.

Somit wird der Stromfluss durch das zu schützende Gerät 8 unterbrochen. Dadurch ist sichergestellt, dass das zu schützende Gerät 8 im Fehlerfall lediglich diejenige Energie entsprechend i2t tragen muss, die zum Aufschmelzen und der Entwicklung des ersten Lichtbogens notwendig ist. Wird eine externe Triggerung mittels der Triggereinrichtung 9 bereitgestellt, so spielt der Strom in Bezug auf das zu schützende Gerät 8 keine Rolle. Diese Energie ist wesentlich geringer als die Energie die bis zum Löschen der Sicherung (Durchlassintegral) durch das Gerät fließen würde.The current flow through the device 8 to be protected is thus interrupted. This ensures that, in the event of a fault, the device 8 to be protected only has to carry the energy corresponding to i2t that is necessary for melting and developing the first arc. If external triggering is provided by means of the trigger device 9, the current does not play a role in relation to the device 8 to be protected. This energy is much less than the energy that would flow through the device until the fuse was deleted (permeability integral).

Hierdurch wird der abgesicherte Stromkreis stark entlastet.This greatly relieves the protected circuit.

In einer vorteilhaften Ausgestaltung weist der Schmelzleiter 5 im Bereich des weiteren Kontaktes 3 eine Sollbruchstelle auf.In an advantageous embodiment, the fusible conductor 5 has a predetermined breaking point in the area of the further contact 3.

In einem Kurzschlussfall des zu schützenden elektrischen Gerätes wird nun der Schmelzleiter 5 im Bereich der Sollbruchstelle 6 aufschmelzen. Solche Sollbruchstellen 6 können z.B. durch Verjüngung(en) und/oder Perforation(en) des Schmelzleiters 5 realisiert sein. Ein Lichtbogen entsteht und wiederum brennt der Lichtbogen die beiden Enden des Schmelzleiters 5 ab, und verlängert sich dadurch. Im Bereich der Annäherung des Kontaktes 3 an den Schmelzleiter 5 kommt es durch den Lichtbogen zu einer Ionisierung, so dass der Lichtbogen, als neuen Fußpunkt den Kontakt 3 wählen kann bzw. auf Grund des geringen Widerstandes (z.B. bei entsprechender Dimensionierung) und/oder Anordnung relativ zum zweiten Kontakt wird. Somit wird der Stromfluss durch das zu schützende Gerät 8 unterbrochen. Dadurch ist sichergestellt, dass das zu schützende Gerät 8 im Fehlerfall lediglich diejenige Energie entsprechend i2t tragen muss, die zum Aufschmelzen der Sollbruchstelle 6 und der Entwicklung des ersten Lichtbogens notwendig ist. Diese Energie ist wesentlich geringer als die Energie die bis zum Löschen der Sicherung (Durchlassintegral) durch das Gerät fließen würde.In the event of a short circuit in the electrical device to be protected, the fusible conductor 5 will now melt in the area of the predetermined breaking point 6. Such predetermined breaking points 6 can be created, for example, by tapering (s) and / or perforation (s) of the fusible conductor 5 be realized. An arc is created and the arc in turn burns off the two ends of the fusible conductor 5 and is thereby lengthened. In the area where contact 3 approaches fusible conductor 5, the arc causes ionization so that the arc can select contact 3 as the new base point or due to the low resistance (e.g. with appropriate dimensioning) and / or arrangement relative to the second contact. The current flow through the device 8 to be protected is thus interrupted. This ensures that, in the event of a fault, the device 8 to be protected only has to carry the energy corresponding to i2t that is necessary to melt the predetermined breaking point 6 and develop the first arc. This energy is much less than the energy that would flow through the device until the fuse was deleted (permeability integral).

Besonders vorteilhaft kann zudem vorgesehen sein, dass der Schmelzleiter 5 mit einem Löschmedium, insbesondere mit Sand und/oder POM (Polyoxymethylen) gefüllt ist. Hierdurch werden die Schalteigenschaften in Bezug auf das Schaltvermögen als auch die Schnelligkeit verbessert, da nunmehr eine verbesserte Kühlung des Lichtbogens bereitgestellt wird, wodurch das Schaltvermögen als auch die Schaltgeschwindigkeit verbessert werden kann.It can also be particularly advantageously provided that the fusible conductor 5 is filled with an extinguishing medium, in particular with sand and / or POM (polyoxymethylene). This improves the switching properties with regard to the switching capacity and also the speed, since an improved cooling of the arc is now provided, whereby the switching capacity and the switching speed can be improved.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist der weitere Kontakt 3 scheibenartig ausgeführt, wobei der Schmelzleiter 5 in einer Einbuchtung oder durch eine Öffnung geführt ist. Hierdurch kann die Herstellung besonders einfach und somit kostengünstig gestaltet werden. Beispielsweise kann der Kontakt als eine Scheibe mit einer im Wesentlichen kreisförmigen Öffnung ausgestaltet sein.In a further embodiment of the invention, the further contact 3 has a disk-like design, the fusible conductor 5 being guided in an indentation or through an opening. As a result, the production can be made particularly simple and thus inexpensive. For example, the contact can be designed as a disk with an essentially circular opening.

In einer weiteren Ausführungsform der Erfindung ist der vierte Kontakt 4 scheibenartig ausgeführt, wobei der Schmelzleiter 5 in einer Einbuchtung oder durch eine Öffnung geführt ist. Hierdurch kann die Herstellung besonders einfach und somit kostengünstig gestaltet werden. Beispielsweise kann der Kontakt als eine Scheibe mit einer im Wesentlichen kreisförmigen Öffnung ausgestaltet sein.In a further embodiment of the invention, the fourth contact 4 has a disk-like design, the fusible conductor 5 being guided in an indentation or through an opening. As a result, the production can be made particularly simple and thus inexpensive. For example, the contact can be designed as a disk with an essentially circular opening.

Gemäß einer Weiterbildung der Erfindung, die in Figur 2 und 4 gezeigt ist, kann die Schmelzsicherung F weiterhin einen Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 aufweisen, der mit dem ersten Kontakt 1 in elektrischer Verbindung steht und der mit dem vierten Kontakt 4 in elektrischer Verbindung steht. Hierdurch kann die Funktionsweise z. B. in Bezug auf Funkenstrecken als zu schützendes Gerät 8 verbessert werden.According to a further development of the invention, which is shown in Figure 2 and 4th is shown, the fuse F can furthermore have an auxiliary fusible conductor 10 which is in electrical connection with the first contact 1 and which is in electrical connection with the fourth contact 4. This allows the operation z. B. with respect to spark gaps as the device 8 to be protected.

Diese Ausführungsform ist besonders geeignet, um Hilfskreise elektrischer Geräte hoher Leistung abzusichern. Denkbar wäre, die elektronischen Mess- Steuer- Regel- und Sicherheitseinrichtungen von großen Motoren und anderen Leistungsstarken Verbrauchern, die Hilfskreise geringer Leistung haben, bei denen der Ausfall des Hilfskreises jedoch zu einer sofortigen Abschaltung (Notabschaltung) des Hauptgerätes führen soll.This embodiment is particularly suitable for protecting auxiliary circuits of high-power electrical devices. It would be conceivable that the electronic measuring, control, regulation and safety devices of large motors and other high-performance consumers that have low-power auxiliary circuits, but where the failure of the auxiliary circuit should lead to an immediate shutdown (emergency shutdown) of the main device.

Im Speziellen ist die Absicherung von Zündkreisen von Funkenstrecken denkbar. Zündkreise sind in aller Regel hinsichtlich ihrer elektrischen Parameter, z.B. ihres elektrischen Querschnitts, wesentlich kleiner ausgelegt als der elektrische Hauptpfad der Funkenstrecke, da die Vorsicherung grundsätzlich für den maximal abzuleitenden Stoßstromimpuls zu dimensionieren ist. Daher kann es erforderlich sein, Zündkreise durch zusätzliche Schutzeinrichtungen abzusichern, was zusätzlichen Bauraum erfordert. Weiterhin muss das Auslösen einer Schutzeirichtung im Zündkreis zusätzlich signalisiert und gegeben Falls extra ferngemeldet werden, da die Funkenstrecke mit ausgefallenem Zündkreis typische Weise einen verminderten Schutz bietet. Somit ergibt sich ein erheblicher zusätzlicher Aufwand, der durch die Integration des Hilfsschmelzleiters als Sicherung für den Zündkreis in die Vorsicherung minimiert werden kann, und zusätzlich ein Gewinn an Sicherheit erzeugt wird, indem die Funkenstrecke 8 vollständig elektrisch abgetrennt wird.In particular, the protection of ignition circuits of spark gaps is conceivable. Ignition circuits are usually with regard to their electrical parameters, e.g. their electrical cross-section, designed to be significantly smaller than the main electrical path of the spark gap, since the backup fuse must always be dimensioned for the maximum surge current pulse to be diverted. It may therefore be necessary to secure ignition circuits with additional protective devices, which requires additional installation space. Furthermore, the triggering of a protective device in the ignition circuit must also be signaled and given. This results in a considerable additional effort, which can be minimized by integrating the auxiliary fusible conductor as a fuse for the ignition circuit in the backup fuse, and an additional gain in safety is generated by the spark gap 8 being completely separated electrically.

Beispielsweise kann die Triggereinrichtung 9 für eine Funkenstrecke als zu schützendes Gerät 8 wie in Figur 4 dargestellt ausgeführt sein.For example, the trigger device 9 for a spark gap can be used as the device 8 to be protected, as in FIG Figure 4 be executed shown.

Für die Gestaltung des Schmelzleiters 5 und des Hilfsschmelzleiters 10 können unterschiedliche Ausführungsformen vorgesehen sein. So kann wie in den Figuren 2 und 4 gezeigt, der Schmelzleiter 5 und der Hilfsschmelzleiter drahtartig zumindest Abschnittsweise parallel geführt sein, oder aber wie in Figur 3 auf der linken Seite dargestellt, kann der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 als Teilstück vom Schmelzleiter 5 abschnittsweise abgetrennt sein. Beispielsweise kann der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 entsprechend durch Abstanzung, Abtrennung, Fräsen oder dergleichen vom Schmelzleiter 5 abschnittsweise abgetrennt sein.Different embodiments can be provided for the design of the fusible conductor 5 and the auxiliary fusible conductor 10. So can like in the Figures 2 and 4th shown, the fusible conductor 5 and the auxiliary fusible conductor can be guided in a wire-like manner, at least in sections, in parallel, or as in FIG Figure 3 shown on the left-hand side, the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be separated in sections from the fusible conductor 5 as a part. For example, the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be correspondingly separated in sections from the fusible conductor 5 by punching, cutting, milling or the like.

Oder aber der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 kann wie in Figur 3 rechts dargestellt abschnittsweise auch wendelartig den Schmelzleiter 5 umgeben.Or the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can as in Figure 3 Shown on the right, sections also surround the fusible conductor 5 in a spiral manner.

Dabei soll der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 zumindest im Bereich der Annäherung des Kontaktes 3 an den Schmelzeiter 5 isoliert vom Schmelzleiter 5 verlaufen, sodass eine im Wesentlichen definierte Zündstelle vorhanden ist.In this case, the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 should run isolated from the fusible conductor 5, at least in the area where the contact 3 approaches the fusible link 5, so that an essentially defined ignition point is present.

Zudem kann der Schmelzleiter 5 als auch der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 über eine oder mehrere Sollbruchstellen 6 im Bereich des weiteren Kontaktes 3 bzw. im Bereich des vierten Kontaktes 4 verfügen.In addition, the fusible conductor 5 and also the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can have one or more predetermined breaking points 6 in the area of the further contact 3 or in the area of the fourth contact 4.

Besonders vorteilhaft kann die erfindungsgemäße Schmelzsicherung F in einer Schmelzsicherungsanordnung A, z.B. wie in Figur 4 dargestellt, eingesetzt werden, die neben der Schmelzsicherung F auch die zu schützende Einrichtung 8 und eine Triggereinrichtung 9 aufweist, welche mit dem vierten Kontakt 4 verbunden ist und eine "externe" Triggerung, d.h. eine Triggerung, die nicht direkt dem Hauptleitpfad geschuldet ist, ermöglicht.The fuse F according to the invention can particularly advantageously be used in a fuse arrangement A, for example as in FIG Figure 4 are used, which in addition to the fuse F also has the device 8 to be protected and a trigger device 9 which is connected to the fourth contact 4 and enables "external" triggering, ie triggering that is not directly owed to the main conduction path .

Dabei kann die zu schützende Einrichtung 8 eine Überspannungsschutzeinrichtung, beispielsweise eine Funkenstrecke und/oder einen Varistoren und/oder eine Transient Voltage Suppressordiode aufweisen.The device 8 to be protected can have an overvoltage protection device, for example a spark gap and / or a varistor and / or a transient voltage suppressor diode.

In der Ausführungsform gemäß Figur 4 ist weiterhin eine Verschleißüberwachungseinrichtung 12 vorgesehen, die z.B. als mit einem degradierbaren Material geschützter Kontakt ausgeführt ist. Die Triggereinrichtung 9 ist dann z.B. ausgangsseitig mit der Verschleißüberwachungseinrichtung 12 der Funkenstrecke 8 zum vierten Kontakt 4 verbunden.In the embodiment according to Figure 4 a wear monitoring device 12 is also provided, which is designed, for example, as a contact protected with a degradable material. The trigger device 9 is then connected, for example on the output side, to the wear monitoring device 12 of the spark gap 8 to the fourth contact 4.

In Figur 4 ist so wohl der Zündkreis, als auch die Verschleißüberwachungseinrichtung 12 über den Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 abgesichert, so dass sowohl die Überlastung des Zündkreises als auch eine Überlastung der Funkenstrecke 8 in ihrem Inneren durch Auslösen des Hilfsschmelzleiters 10 und nachfolgendem Abbrennen des Hauptschmelzleiters 5 die Funkenstrecke 8 vollständig vom Netz getrennt wird.In Figure 4 Both the ignition circuit and the wear monitoring device 12 are secured via the auxiliary fusible conductor 10, so that both the overload of the ignition circuit and an overload of the spark gap 8 inside them by triggering the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 and subsequent burning of the main fusible conductor 5 completely removes the spark gap 8 Network is disconnected.

Dabei entsteht bei Überlastung des Hilfsschmelzleiters 10 im Bereich der Annäherung zwischen dem Kontakt 4 und dem Schmelzleiter 5 ein Lichtbogen zwischen den Enden des aufgebrannten Hilfsschmelzleiters 10. Mittels dieses Lichtbogens zündet ein zweiter Lichtbogen zischen dem Schmelzleiter 5 und dem Kontakt 3, der zum Abbrennen des Schmelzleiters 5, also zum Auslösen der Sicherung führt. Zur Verbesserung des Zündverhaltens kann der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 im Bereich der Annäherung des Kontaktes 3 an den Schmelzleiter 5 eine Sollbruchstelle 6 aufweisen, die bei Überlastung des Schmelzleiters als erstes bricht, so dass an dieser Stelle ein erster Lichtbogen entsteht. Bei geeigneter Dimensionierung des Schmelzleiters 5 und des Hilfsschmelzleiters 10 ist es somit möglich, mittels eines geringen Auslösestromes im Schmelzleiter 8 die hochstromtragfähige Schmelzsicherung F auszulösen, ohne dass der Strom bis zum Auslösen und Löschen der hochstromtragfähigen Sicherung F (Durchlassintegral i2t) durch das zu schützende Gerät 8 fließen muss. Insbesondere kann der Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 durch Schalteinrichtungen in dem zu schützenden Gerät oder einer Triggereinrichtung 9 bestromt und ausgelöst werden. Somit erhält man eine triggerbare Schmelzsicherung F.If the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 is overloaded in the area of the approach between the contact 4 and the fusible conductor 5, an arc is created between the ends of the fused-on auxiliary fusible conductor 10.This arc ignites a second arc between the fusible conductor 5 and the contact 3, which is used to burn off the fusible conductor 5, so it triggers the fuse. To improve the ignition behavior, the auxiliary fusible link 10 can be used in the area of the approach of the Contact 3 on the fusible conductor 5 have a predetermined breaking point 6, which breaks first when the fusible conductor is overloaded, so that a first arc occurs at this point. With suitable dimensioning of the fusible conductor 5 and the auxiliary fusible conductor 10, it is thus possible to trigger the high-current fuse F by means of a low tripping current in the fusible conductor 8, without the current through the device to be protected until the high-current-carrying fuse F is triggered and extinguished (passage integral i2t) 8 must flow. In particular, the auxiliary fusible conductor 10 can be energized and triggered by switching devices in the device to be protected or a trigger device 9. This gives a triggerable fuse F.

Zur Einführung der isolierten Potentiale des weiteren Kontaktes 3 und des vierten Kontaktes 4 können die üblichen Mechanismen zur isolierten Durchführung von Potentialen genutzt werden. Besonders vorteilhaft ist der schichtweise Aufbau aus Metallplatten und Isolierplatten mit einer Sicherungsendplatte zum Abschluss. In diesem Aufbau können die verschiedenen Potentiale über die gestapelt voneinander isolierten Platten eingeführt werden. Der Plattenstapel kann z.B. verschraubt sein.The usual mechanisms for isolated implementation of potentials can be used to introduce the isolated potentials of the further contact 3 and the fourth contact 4. The layered structure of metal plates and insulating plates with a locking end plate at the end is particularly advantageous. In this structure, the different potentials can be introduced via the stacked and insulated plates. The plate stack can e.g. be screwed.

Das Auslösen der Schmelzsicherung kann entsprechend den üblichen Mechanismen signalisiert werden.The triggering of the fuse can be signaled according to the usual mechanisms.

Die vorgestellte Erfindung kann besonders vorteilhaft im Bereich der Elektromobilität als auch der Erzeugung von elektrischer Energie mittels Photovoltaik verwendet werden. Hier ist häufig festzustellen, dass Fahrzeuge oder Anlagen oder Geräte bestimmte Sicherheitskriterien erfüllen sollen, um z.B. bei einem Unfall oder bei einem Brand, keine Gefährdung für Insassen oder Helfer darzustellen. Dann kann durch die Erfindung ohne weiteres eine automatisch oder extern triggerbar und hochleistungsfähige Abschaltung der Energiequelle als Beispiel eines zu schützenden Gerätes 8 bereitgestellt werden. Bezugszeichenliste Schmelzsicherung F Erster Kontakt 1 Zweiter Kontakt 2 Weiterer Kontakt 3 Schmelzleiter 5 Sollbruchstelle 6 Zu schützende Einrichtung 8 Triggereinrichtung 9 Hilfsschmelzleiter 10 Verschleißüberwachungseinrichtung 12 Erstes Potential L Zweites Potential N Schmelzsicherungsanordnung A The presented invention can be used particularly advantageously in the field of electromobility as well as the generation of electrical energy by means of photovoltaics. It is often found here that vehicles or systems or devices should meet certain safety criteria in order, for example, in the event of an accident or fire, to avoid any danger to occupants or helpers. The invention can then readily provide an automatically or externally triggerable and high-performance shutdown of the energy source as an example of a device 8 to be protected. List of reference symbols Fuse F. First contact 1 Second contact 2 Further contact 3 Fusible link 5 Predetermined breaking point 6th Facility to be protected 8th Trigger device 9 Auxiliary fusible link 10 Wear monitoring device 12th First potential L. Second potential N Fuse assembly A.

Claims (11)

  1. A fuse (F) for a device (8) to be protected, wherein the fuse (F) has a first contact (1) and a second contact (2), whereby the second contact (2) being used to electrically contact the device (8) to be protected, wherein the fuse (F) has a fuse element (5) that connects the first contact (1) to the second contact (2), wherein the fuse (F) also has an additional contact (3), whereby the additional contact (3) being arranged so as to be insulated from the first contact (1) and insulated from the second contact (2) and, in an untripped state, is contactless with respect to the fuse element (5), characterized in that a fourth contact (4) is provided that makes external triggering available, whereby on the vent of triggering the fuse element (5) is caused to fuse indirectly or directly, whereby the fourth contact (4) is arranged for being used as an ignition spark gap for the area of approximation of the further contact (3) towards the fuse element (5)
  2. The fuse (F) according to claim 1, characterized in that the fuse element (5) has a predetermined breaking point (6) in the area of the additional contact (3).
  3. The fuse (F) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the fuse (F) is enclosed at least in portions by a quenching medium, particularly by sand and/or POM.
  4. The fuse (F) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fourth contact (4) is disc-like, and the fuse element (5) is guided in an indentation or through an opening.
  5. The fuse (F) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fuse (F) also has an auxiliary fuse element (10) that is electrically connected to the first contact (1) and is electrically connected to the fourth contact (4).
  6. The fuse (F) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the additional contact (3) is disc-like, and the auxiliary fuse element (10) is guided in an indentation or through an opening.
  7. A fuse arrangement (A) having a fuse (F) as set forth in any one of the preceding claims and a device (8) to be protected, further comprising a triggering device (9) that is connected to the fourth contact (4) and enables external triggering.
  8. The fuse arrangement (A) as set forth in the preceding claim, wherein the device (8) to be protected has an overvoltage protection device.
  9. The fuse arrangement (A) as set forth in the preceding claim, characterized in that the overvoltage protection device is selected from a group which includes spark gaps, varistors, and transient voltage suppressor diodes.
  10. The fuse arrangement (A) as set forth in any one of preceding claims 8 to 9, characterized in that the overvoltage protection device is a spark gap with an auxiliary ignition electrode, wherein the triggering device (9) has an ignition circuit, and wherein the ignition circuit is connected to the auxiliary electrode of the spark gap (8).
  11. The fuse arrangement (A) as set forth in any one of preceding claims 8 to 10, characterized in that the overvoltage protection device is a spark gap with a wear monitoring device (12), with the triggering device (9) being connected to the wear monitoring device (12) of the spark gap (8).
EP15745221.0A 2014-08-04 2015-08-04 Fuse for a device to be protected Active EP3178104B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
DE102014215279.8A DE102014215279A1 (en) 2014-08-04 2014-08-04 Fuse for a device to be protected
PCT/EP2015/067956 WO2016020381A1 (en) 2014-08-04 2015-08-04 Fuse for a device to be protected

Publications (2)

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EP3178104A1 EP3178104A1 (en) 2017-06-14
EP3178104B1 true EP3178104B1 (en) 2020-09-23

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US (1) US10134555B2 (en)
EP (1) EP3178104B1 (en)
CN (1) CN106716591B (en)
DE (1) DE102014215279A1 (en)
WO (1) WO2016020381A1 (en)

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CZ2021268A3 (en) 2021-06-01 2022-07-13 Saltek S.R.O. Devices for protecting against over-current, in particular for surge arresters

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Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
EP3178104A1 (en) 2017-06-14
US10134555B2 (en) 2018-11-20
US20170236674A1 (en) 2017-08-17
CN106716591B (en) 2019-09-27
DE102014215279A1 (en) 2016-02-04
WO2016020381A1 (en) 2016-02-11
CN106716591A (en) 2017-05-24

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